Waterworld (Kenner)

Waterworld
Kenner
1995

In an ever growing futile attempt from Kenner to grab hold of a franchise that would give them the profits the likes that they'd seen in the late 70's/early 80's, the decision was made to produce a toy line on the Universal film Waterworld.  Sadly, much like so many Kenner products over the late 1980's/early 1990's, the film was a flop, and with it went any chance of mass sales in toys.

The film which cost $175 million to make just barely grossed over $264 million.  While 89 million dollars would be happily received by many of us, to Hollywood it was a major bust for the investment.

The poor reception of the film certainly didn't help it's leading actor, Kevin Costner, who would be a nominee of the Razzie Award fairly consecutively from 1992 through 2002 for not only worst actor, but worst film.  Waterworld was no exception, and nominated for both.

In total, eight figures were produced - Six basic figures, and two deluxe with vehicles.  Four of the eight would be renditions of Costner's character, The Mariner.

Atoll Enforcer*Bola Attack Mariner*Deacon

Hydro Stinger Mariner*Nord*Power Bolt Mariner

Wave Ripper with Warrior Mariner*Smoker Thunder Ski with Berserker Rider

Only one larger vehicle was produced for the series.

The Trimaran

Kenner learned the hard way in 1977 that you should have product ready to go for a film that could potentially turn into an overnight success.  Unfortunately for them, they also spent the next two decades learning the hard way that you should wait to see if a film is going to be a huge success before having product ready to go.  What a terrible catch 22.

Join us next time when we take a look at The New Frontier!

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